Solid oxide fuel cell system

Abstract

The invention is a solid oxide fuel cell system including: a fuel cell module, a fuel flow regulator unit, a first power demand detection device, a control section for controlling a fuel supply amount and setting the current value extractable from the fuel cell module, an inverter for extracting current in a range not exceeding the extractable current value, and a power state detecting sensor for detecting actual extracted current value; whereby if actual extracted current value declines, then under circumstances where power demand begins to rise in a state of extra margin in the fuel supply amount after the controller suddenly decreases the extractable current value and suddenly reduces the electrical collector, the controller increases the extractable current value at a high current rise rate of change.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD[0001]The present invention pertains to a solid oxide fuel cell system, and more particularly to a solid oxide fuel cell system for generating variable electrical power in response to power demand.BACKGROUND ART[0002]In recent years, various solid oxide fuel devices comprising fuel cells capable of obtaining electrical power by generating electricity using fuel (hydrogen gas) and air, as well as auxiliary equipment for running such fuel cells, have been proposed as next-generation energy sources.[0003]Japanese Unexamined Patent Application H.7-307163 (Patent Document 1) sets forth a fuel cell device. In this fuel cell device, the electrical power generated is varied in response to load.[0004]Here, referring to FIG. 15, we explain a power supply system utilizing a fuel cell. FIG. 15 shows an example of a conventional system for supplying electrical power to a residence using a fuel cell. In the system, electrical power consumed by a residence 200 is supplied by fuel ce...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent describes a solid oxide fuel cell system that can save energy and adjust its power output to match demand, while reducing stress on the fuel cell module. The technical effect is a highly practical system that offers improved performance and load following capabilities.

Problems solved by technology

If a current equal to or greater than the generating capacity corresponding to the fuel supply amount, etc. determined based on base current Ii is extracted from fuel cell module 208, then there is a risk that fuel depletion in fuel cells within the fuel cell module 208 will occur, dramatically shortening the life span of the fuel cells and damaging the fuel cells.

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